Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF) – Fact Sheet

Overview

This surgery removes a herniated or diseased disc and relieves neck and radiating arm pain caused by parts of the disc pressing on nerve roots.

Incision Created

The surgeon performs this procedure through an incision on the front of the neck.

Disc Removed

First, the surgeon removes the diseased or damaged disc. Removing the disc relieves pressure on pinched nerve roots, alleviating pain. Spacer Inserted Next, the space above and below the removed disc is cleared and prepared for a vertebral spacer. A bone graft material is inserted into the spacer, and the implant is placed between the vertebrae.

Metal Plate Attached

The surgeon may then screw a small metal plate over the area to hold the bones in place while the vertebrae heal.

End of Procedure

During the healing process, the vertebral bone above and below the spacer will knit together to form a new bone mass called a fusion.